3G network for Belgium's emergency, security services

PARIS, May 22 (UPI) -- Belgium's emergency and security services are to receive their first mobile 3G network through a contract with Astrium of France.

Astrium said it is providing its Blue Light Mobile system to ASTRID, Belgium's mobile telecommunications network operator for police forces and firefighters, national defense organizations and other emergency services.

The contract is for five years, Astrium said, but the value of the deal wasn't disclosed.

Astrium's Blue Light Mobile will be deployed from early next year.

"Blue Light Mobile will allow the security forces to exchange vital information during missions on the ground: enriched mapping of selected areas; real time videos and pictures; and access to state security files and databases," Astrium said.

"Thanks to this private, secure mobile virtual network, Belgium's security services will be able to exchange data on smartphones, tablets and computers on operations."

Astrium said ASTRID operates the security forces' TETRA-type radio networks and Blue Light Mobile will reinforce its commercial offer and enable it to become a Mobile Virtual Network Operator.